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Craniological differentiation amongst Southeast Asian small cats
Athirah N Azli1, Chrishen R Gomez2, Andrew C Kitchener3,4
1Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, University of Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
Scientific Reports
|August 14, 2025
Summary
Skull morphology analysis of nine small felid species in Southeast Asia revealed distinct differences, but also significant overlap, particularly with the introduced domestic cat. Further research is needed to assess competition impacts.
Area of Science:
- Zoology
- Comparative Anatomy
- Ecology
Background:
- Southeast Asia hosts nine small felid species, including the invasive domestic cat.
- Understanding their morphological differences is crucial for assessing ecological interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and compare the skull morphology of nine small felid species in Southeast Asia.
- To identify distinguishable species and assess potential niche overlap, especially concerning domestic cats.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 36 morphometric measurements from 465 small felid specimens.
- Applied Principal Component Analysis and Quadratic Discriminant Analysis for morphological comparisons.
Main Results:
- Fishing cats and flat-headed cats showed distinct skull morphologies.
- Significant morphological overlap was observed among several species, including domestic cats, complicating differentiation.
- Sympatric assemblages showed better differentiation, though sex-based differences were often unclear.
Conclusions:
- Skull morphology provides some differentiation among Southeast Asian small felids, but overlap is substantial.
- The introduced domestic cat exhibits considerable morphological similarity to native species, raising concerns about niche overlap.
- Further research is essential to determine the ecological impact of domestic cats on indigenous small felids.
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